Hobo Days
The 115th National Hobo Convention
The 2015 Hobo Guide for the Aug. 5-9 National Hobo Convention and Hobo Days in Britt, Iowa
June 19, 2015 A publication of the Britt News Tribune
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Welcome to the annual hobo convention
B
ritt’s annual National Hobo Convention offers a variety of exciting activities to residents and visitors alike. Learn about the history of the hobo at the Hobo Museum. Experience hobo culture at Britt’s unique Hobo Jungle. Browse antiques and sample oneof-a-kind mulligan stew. Watch the giant parade or test athletic skills in the 5K/10K walk/run. There is truly something for everyone during Hobo Days and the National Hobo Convention. The following are some of the highlights of the celebration. HOBO DAYS PARADE Saturday at 10 a.m. everyone can let their hobo spirit soar as they participate in the giant parade. Whether you’re part of this large parade or a spectator, the spirit of the day is sure to capture your mood. Marching bands, queens, business floats, children, adults and hobos all come down the streets in one long line and share the fun that only a hobo convention can provide. HOBO MEMORIAL SERVICE The hobo cemetery
FILE PHOTO, Britt News Tribune
National Hobo Convention attendees honor a fellow hobo during a gathering in the Hobo Jungle. in Evergreen Cemetery on the east edge of Britt is symbolic of the ties between the hobo and the community. The memorial area, dedicated in 1990, is the resting spot of many deceased convention hobos. Hobo friends, relatives, American Legion members and others join convention-goers at this
Friday morning service to pay homage to the hobo ways and the hobos who have caught the “westbound.” Recently, Preacher Steve was laid to rest in the hobo cemetery during the memorial ceremony. He took his place among other grave sites including Cinderbox Cindy, Honor John, Hobo Joe,
Cardboard, Hardrock Kid, Slow Motion Shorty, Charlie Tuna, Iowa Bob, Lord Open Road, Hafey Zale, Connecticut Slim, Slim Jim, Texas Bob, Man Called John and others. HOBO JUNGLE They’d hop the rails, ride awhile, then make camp just off the track. Jungle was the name of this campsite.
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Each year at the National Hobo Convention, hobos gather to share their stories, sing and dance around a campfire by the tracks. They relive the old jungle days and open the celebration to all who want to join. Coffee and food may be prepared over the campfire and shared with friends as the night comes to a close. All relax to share an evening of entertainment under the stars. Everyone is encouraged to sing along or share a story. A visit to the convention isn’t complete without a trip to the jungle. The hobos also take their music and jungle atmosphere to Westview Care Center each year to entertain the residents and spread a little good cheer. KING AND QUEEN CORONATION The annual convention of the Local Tourist Union No. 63 originally was the time set aside to elect a hobo leader for the following year. The Local 63 has decreased in numbers over the years, but the tradition of electing a king and queen from the hobo ranks is still carried out
through voting by crowd applause. To win the title, hobos may entertain with song, dance or stories. Last year, Cindy Lou and Songbird were crowned during the annual coronation ceremony at the city park. As king and queen, they were expected to represent the hobo culture, the convention and the city of Britt over the year of their reign. The pair succeeded 2013 royalty Bookworm Bonnie and Frog. Spectators voted by applauding for their favorite candidate. HOBO SOUVENIRS You are sure to want something to remember the experience of being a part of Hobo Days, so be sure to get a souvenir while you’re in Britt. The Hobo Museum and Gift Shop has a great selection of hobo poetry and books. Hobo poetry, hobo knots, T-shirts, caps, cups, spoons, thimbles, postcards and posters are also available at various venues during Hobo Days. CRAFTS AND COLLECTABLES The craft and
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gallons of mulligan stew is served after the parade on Saturday. collectable show will be The stew recipe is held in conjunction with one that cooks have used the convention this year for many years after its much to the pleasure of secrets were obtained treasure seekers. On the from the hobos who open streets, many shoppers have a chance to shop attended the earliest conventions. The tradithe tables of merchants. tion started as free meal The market sets up on Thursday and runs through for hobos but has been extended to a free meal for Saturday night. There is a full slate of exhibitors each all who attend the convention and Hobo Days. year that includes those AG MUSEUM who make rugs, wood The Hancock County items, jewelry and sell Agriculture Museum various collectables. offers another glimpse MULLIGAN STEW into a way of life. The Saturday includes the museum is a chance to well-known highlight of learn about the early days the convention and Hobo of farming in Iowa. Days as hundreds gather Various tools and to eat mulligan stew in machinery on are on the city park in Britt’s downtown. More than 500 display. Those tools
were used by some of Iowa’s early farmers. The museum, on the grounds of the Hancock County District fairgrounds, is open from 1 to 4 p.m. during the Saturday of Hobo Days. 5K/10K WALK RUN The annual event starts at 7 a.m Saturday. Hundreds of participants of all ages walk or run in this event. Runners and walkers travel through a wellmarked route in the early morning. Participants also get a T-shirt to commemorate the event. CLASSIC CAR SHOW AND SEMI TRUCK SHOW Sunday is the day to look at classic cars and large semi trucks. The classic car show and the
Brad Broshar Memorial semi tractor show will be in Britt’s Downtown. The craft and collectable show continues Sunday. The day will also include entertainment and attendees can feel free to dance if the mood strikes them. OTHER EVENTS Convention and Hobo Days activities also include a 7:30 p.m. Wednesday Hobo Cemetery tour with Connecticut Shorty and a 7 p.m. Thursday official lighting of the fire. This year’s convention and Hobo Days also features carnival rides by American Carnival Entertainment Thursday and Friday evenings and all day Saturday.
FILE PHOTO, Britt News Tribune
Kids participate in the annual toilet bowl race during Hobo Days in 2013.
Welcome to the 115th National Hobo Convention
Front row: Phyllis Schutjer, Susan Dietrich, Amy Madson, Laurie Burgardt, Ericka Johnson, Brandi Hadacek. Back Row: Jane Swenson, Linda Helsey, Eric Newton, Jordan Savoy, Misty Powers, Doug Weiland. Absent: Jan Nelson, Amber Hildman
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Hobo Days committee says welcome RAE YOST
2015 Hobo Guide
The task of the Hobo Committee for Britt includes helping to preserve hobo history and hobo life and education to the public as well as providing a good time to visitors at the Aug. 5-9 Hobo Days and National Hobo Convention. Committee members said they believe the committee has been doing well at that for the past several years. “At the end of year we always look at it so see what more we can have,” committee Beth Gretillat said. “We do put pressure on ourselves to keep it going, to keep improving.” “We have a good group of dedicated volunteers and that helps. Plus, we have a supportive community,” committee member Amy Boekelman said. Boekelman said the annual event is a collaborative effort between the committee, hobo community and others who get involved. “All of us work together...,”
Britt News Tribune photo
The 2015 Hobo Days Committee. Boekelman said. One example of the success is the vendor participants. “We have many return vendors and now we have people calling who haven’t come before,” Boekelman said. While it’s work for the
committee, members do enjoy it. “It’s always a lot of fun,” committee member Ryan Arndorfer said. “I look forward to it every year.” The community takes pride in its ties to the hobo lifestyle.
“I love Hobo Days,” said Chad Luecht, a committee member and city council member. “We’re nationally known and not many towns can say they are nationally known.” Committee members welcome visitors to Britt
for the annual National Hobo Convention and Hobo Days this year. The committee encourages visitors to stop at the Hobo Jungle to talk with hobos, listen to some music and enjoy the atmosphere. This year’s Hobo Days also features a
carnival in the downtown, toilet bowl races, music and other entertainment throughout the festival. Visitors are also invited to visit the Hobo Museum and the hobo cemetery at Evergreen Cemetery to learn more about the hobo way of life.
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Couple marries at national convention FAR LEFT: The couple exchanges vows during the ceremony.
RAE YOST
2015 Hobo Guide
BRITT - She knew from the moment she shook his hand. Jaroslav Pardubicky was making coffee in the company’s lunch room when Kimi Kwarsick walked in. “I met him, shook his hand and thought ‘You’re the man for me,’” Kimi said during the 2014 National Hobo Convention. “It was like a connection from the heart,” Pardubicky said of the handshake. They’ve been a couple for 16 years. The handshake led to marriage vows in a hobo and legal ceremony in the Hobo Jungle on Aug. 9 during the National Hobo Convention and Hobo Days in Britt. A love of the hobo life has been part of Pardubicky’s life for many years. He’s known as Czech Hobo in the hobo world. He’s attended several conventions and often plays guitar and sings in jungle. The couple lives in Westminister, Colo., and Pardubicky recently retired. Although they had talked of marriage “many times” and were close to it, Kimi said, they decided to do it in 2014 at the convention. The couple was married by ordained ministers and hobos Sunshine and Hobo Spike. Spike said he wrote the marriage vows for the couple which included promising to take each other for who they are and to love their spouse more than they need
LEFT: Kimi walks under a canopy of bindles before she is married. FILE PHOTOS, Britt News Tribune
“I met him, shook his hand and thought ‘You’re the man for me.’” —Kimi Kwarsick
their spouse. The couple also completed the hobo marriage ritual of walking around the convention fire while pulling the leaves from a rhubarb plant. Spike said the leaves are poison and the stalk is good. To remove the leaves and keep the stalk is to symbolize getting rid of the bad in a marriage and keeping only the good. Kimi and Czech Hobo became emotional during the ceremony which touched Spike. “I almost starting crying myself,” Spike said. Kimi walked under a canopy of bindles held by hobo women before the ceremony. After they were married, Kimi and Czech Hobo walked under the canopy together.
Welcome to the 115th National Hobo Convention Visit the many Hobo attractions
Engraved Walkway
Hobo Museum & Gift Shop
Hobo Jungle
Queen’s Garden
Hobo Cemetary
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Hobo King Songbird helps with veteran’s project Songbird said. “He wanted to get something going in his A train whistled, then son’s memory,” Songrumbled past the house one recent evening as the bird said. Songbird was pleased 2014 Hobo King Songbird to help. The CD was talked about the past recorded in a LaCrosse year. Songbird lives in Ban- studio with grammy winner Brett Huus as gor, Wisconsin. When the producer. he ran for king during Huus won grammies last year’s National Hobo for his work on recordConvention he said he ings with an artist in the wanted to visit as many Native American music Veterans Administration category, Songbird said. hospitals as possible. “This is no stupid John Ward of LaCrosse, stuff,” Songbird said. “It’s Wisconsin, heard of very well produced.” Songbird’s plan and The topic isn’t lightinvited him to take weight either. another path. Songbird is a Vietnam “I got sidetracked War veteran. He said his unintentionally,” Songstance on post traumatic bird said. stress disorder may not be The sidetrack was popular and even controa path the led to a CD versial. music project called The “I don’t like the word Other War. The CD feadisorder,” Songbird said. tures two songs written “Some use the word synby Songbird. drome,” which he said, is The CD was recorded slightly more tolerable. to raise awareness about Songbird believes that veterans with post trauany military veteran of matic stress and to raise any war in any country money to benefit veterwill experience some post ans, Songbird said. traumatic stress. Ward’s son was an “If they are not Iraq war veteran who stressed when they suffered with post traucome back, I personally matic stress. He died of think that’s a disorder,” an accidental overdose, RAE YOST
2015 Hobo Guide
2015 Hobo Guide
Songbird talks before the 2014 Hobo King Coronation.
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Songbird said. Stress should be viewed as the norm while a soldier who returns without stress should be viewed as unusual or the one with the disorder, Songbird said. Songbird referred to a scene in the movie “Patton” abut Gen. George Patton’s military career. A soldier is saying in the hospital that he can’t handle the war and Patton reminds him of all the other courageous soldiers and slaps that soldier’s face. “In my opinion, we’ve grown a bit (on the view of military stress).”
Still “That’s what’s wrong with the whole situation,” Songbird said of the accepted view on post traumatic stress. Again, he stressed, it’s not just U.S. soldiers that experience post traumatic stress. “Any veteran of any nation,” will likely have it, he said. While he didn’t visit as many VA hospitals as he had hoped, he did get involved in a project that will benefit veterans. It’s been well received in the LaCrosse area, he said. “Hopefully the CD goes nationally,” Songbird said.
Britt Chamber of Commerce
Welcomes you to the 115th Hobo Convention Bingo on Main Thurs. - 7 - 9 pm Fri. - 5 - 9 pm Sat. - Noon - 6 pm
Britt Chamber of Commerce brittchamber@gmail.com Like our Facebook page
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Hobo Queen spreads the message “A hobo is a person who travels and works. A tramp is a dreamer who will work (sometimes) and a bum doesn’t do anything.”
RAE YOST
2015 Hobo Guide
The 2014 National Hobo Queen Cindy Lou has traveled most of her life including in the past year as Hobo Queen. “I work full time. I do home health care so I go where I’m needed,” Cindy Lou said. This past year she was working in Minneapolis. It gave her the opportunity to speak at her granddaughter’s high school, a performing arts high school in Hopkins, Minnesota. “Minneapolis Jewel and I spoke to a group of students there,” Cindy Lou said. “One of the first things a kid says is ‘what’s the difference between a hobo and a bum?’” Cindy Lou said. “I told him it was very simple. A hobo is a person who travels and works. A tramp is a dreamer who will work (sometimes) and a bum doesn’t do anything.” The queen and fellow hobo Minneapolis Jewel answered other questions and shared some stories. “I’ve always moved
—Cindy Lou
FILE PHOTO, Britt News Tribune
Cindy Lou gives her speech before the 2014 coronation. around,” Cindy Lou said. “I’ve lived in several different states.” Those states include Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, Missouri and others. “The kind of work I
do allows me to move around...,” Cindy Lou said. “I am able to find work wherever I go.” As she travels, she meets new and familiar hobos and strangers with
whom she will talk about the hobo culture. “A lot of people have the wrong idea about what a hobo is,” Cindy Lou said. She has a responsibility to teach others that hobos
Welcome to the 115th Hobo Convention
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are respectful people who give people the benefit of the doubt and don’t look for the negative. She carried that message with her this year in an official capacity as
Hobo Queen. As soon as she left Britt in August she headed to a smaller hobo gathering in Cassville, Wisconsin. She returned to Britt where she greeted guests on a tour of the National Hobo Museum. In December she was in Bellingham, Washington, at her brother’s annual Christmas party. And in between and after she spread the hobo story with many she met. Fellow hobos have embraced her as queen but her own family was especially proud. “It’s a big thrill for my children,” Cindy Lou said. “My children were exposed to hobos at a very young age.” She’s happy they’ve taken an interest in the life.
Riding the rails since 2013
63 Main Ave. South, Britt, Iowa 641-843-3570
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SCENES FROM THE 2014 NATIONAL HOBO CONVENTION
Music in the Hobo Jungle.
Hobo Redbird.
TOP: Hobos dance in the jungle. BOTTOM: Scattering ashes on the fire.
Graincar George.
Great Northern Lady
Daisy Sue
Texas Mike
Hobo Frog.
Welcome to all Hobos & Hobos at Heart to the 115th National Hobo Convention Serving the best breakfast & lunch in North Iowa 120 Main Ave. N., Britt, lowa 641-843-4483 208 N. Main St., Kanawha, IA 641-762-3551
We accept all major credit cards
Regular Hours: Mon.—Fri. 5:30 am—1:30 pm Sat—5:30 ‐ 10:30 am Sun.—7 am—Noon
Extended Hours For Hobo Days
72 Main Ave. S., Britt, IA • 641‐843‐3840
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Past hobo kings 1900 — Charles Noe, 1933-1935 — Hairbreadth Harry, 1936 — Scoop Shovel Scotty, 1937-38 — King David I, 1939 — Scoop Shovel Scotty, 194045 — Hobo Ben Benson, 1946 — Skeet Simmons, 1947 — Hiway Johnny Weaver, 1948 — Hobo Ben Benson, 1949 — Cannoball Eddie, 1950 — Hobo Ben Benson, 1951 — Cannonball Eddie, 1952 — Scoop Shovel Scotty, 1953 — Hobo Ben Benson, 1954-55 — Scoop Shovel Scotty, 1956 — Hobo Benson, 1957 — Scoop Shovel Scotty, 1958 — Arizona Bill, 1959 — Scoop Shovel Scotty, 1960-61 — King David I, 1962 — Scoop Shovel Scotty, 1963 — Pennsylvania Kid Wilson, 1964 — Beef Steak Charlie, 1965 — Hard Rock Kid, 1966 — Pennsylvania Kid, 1967 — Hard Rock Kid, 1968 — Pennsylvania Kid, 1969 — Slow Motion Shorty, 1970 — Hard Rock Kid, 1971 — Pennsylvania Kid, 1972 — Hard Rock Kid, 1973 — Steamtrain Maury, 1974 — Slow Motion Shorty,
Hobo cemetery tour set
Past hobo queens 1975 — Hard Rock Kid, 1976 — Steamtrain Maury, 1977 — Sparky Smith, 1978 — Steamtrain Maury, 1979 — Steamtrain Maury, 1980 — Sparky Smith, 1981 — Steamtrain Maury, 1982 — Hobo Bill Mainer, 1983 — Mountain Dew, 1984 — Fry Pan Jack, 1985 — Frisco Jack, 1986 — Ramblin’ Rudy, 1987 — Alabama Hobo, 1988 — Fishbones, 1989 — El Paso Kid, 1990 — Songbird McCue, 1991 — Ohio Ned, 1992 — Roadhog USA, 1993 — Iowa Blackie, 1994 — Sidedoor Pullman Kid, 1995 — Luther the Jet, 1996 — Liberty Justice, 1997 — Frog, 1998 — New York Slim, 1999 — Preacher Slim, 2000 — Bo Grump, 2001 — Grandpa Dudley, 2002 — Redbird Express, 2003 — Hobo Spike, 2004 — Adman, 2005 — Iron Horse Brad, 2006- Iowegian Rick, 2007 — Tuck, 2008 — Stretch, 2009 — Inkman, 2010 — Dante, 2011 — Uncle Freddie, 2012 — Minnesota Jim, 2013 — Frog, 2014 — Songbird.
1946-48 — Polly Ellen Pep, 1949-1950 — Box Car Myrtle, 1951-53 — Sylvia Davis, 1954-1955 — Box Car Betty Link, 196061 — Box Car Betty Link, 1969 — Box Car Myrtle, 1970-1974 — Longlooker Mic, 1975 — Adventurer Jan, 1976 — LuAnn Uhden, 1977-1979 — Longlooker Mic, 1980 — Cinderbox Cindy, 1981 — Hobo Lump, 1982 — Longlooker Mic, 1983 — Hobo Lump, 1984 — Slo Freight Ben, 1985 — Longlooker Mic, 1986 — Minneapolis Jewel, 1987 — Hobo Lump, 1988 — Would-be-hobo, 1989 — Slo Freight Ben, 1990 — Gypsy Moon,
1991 — Minneapolis Jewel, 1992 — Connecticut Shorty, 1993 — Blue Moon, 1994 — New York Maggie, 1995 — Cinderbox Cindy, 1996 — Come On Pat, 1997 — Minneapolis Jewel, 1998 — Cinders, 1999 — Slo Freight Ben, 2000 — M.A.D. Mary, 2001 — Derail, 2002 — Nightingale, 2003 — Mama Jo, 2004 — Sunrise, 2005 — Half Track, 2006 — Ms. Charlotte, 2007 — Lady Sonshine, 2008 — Connecticut Tootsie, 2009 — Stray Cat, 2010 — Double “B”, 2011 — Minneapolis Jewel, 2012 — Joan Lamfers, Angel, 2013 — Bookworm Bonnie, 2014 — Cindy Lou.
Connecticut Shorty conducts a cemetery tour during a recent National Hobo Convention. File photo Britt News Tribune
Connecticut Shorty will conduct another tour of the hobo cemetery this year. Many hobos are buried in the hobo section of Evergreen Cemetery. Hobos buried in the cemetery include Lord Open Road, A Man Called
John, Cinderbox Cindy, Stick Chick and others. When a hobo dies, fellow hobos refer to it as catching the westbound. A memorial service is conducted at the cemetery during each National Convention.
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BRITT DRAFT HORSE SHOW
SEPTEMBER
4–6, 2015
Fenchel, Doster & Buck
Hancock County Fairgrounds * Brttt, IA 2015 Qualifying Show for the North American Six-Horse Hitch Classic Series.
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Welcome to the 115th National Hobo Convention Like the railroad, we have a long history with Britt
For a show schedule, visit:
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Grandstand Show Saturday & Sunday, 2:00 p.m.
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HOBO DAYS SCHEDULE 115th National Hobo Convention
Cattleman’s Association 6 p.m................ Street Musician Paul Siebert in August 5–9, 2015 Veteran’s Park 6:30 p.m. ......... Alumni WEDNESDAY, AUG. 5 Banquet at West Hancock All Day .............. Britt Retail Grade School Merchants Sidewalk Sales 7 p.m. ............... Hobo — Specials throughout the Entertainment at the Hobo week. Jungle 7:30 p.m........... Hobo 7:30 p.m........... Family conCemetery Tour with cert featuring Irish folk band Connecticut Shorty at The Commoners at Veterans Evergreen Cemetery Park, sponsored by Klint & THURSDAY, AUG. 6 Lynn Patterson, Diemer Realty 5-10 p.m. .......... American and the Britt Vet Clinic Carnival Entertainment opens SATURDAY, AUG. 8 on Main Street 7 a.m. 5k/10k Run & Walk in 5:30 p.m. ......... Little Miss Lions Park by West Hancock Britt in City Park Gazebo High School with digital 7 p.m. ............... Official timing by True Time Racing Fire Lighting, Four Winds Services Ceremony and Entertainment 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Vagabond at the Hobo Jungle Craft Show & Collectables on FRIDAY, AUG. 7 Main Street 9 a.m. .............. Hobo 10 a.m. Parade with Grand Memorial Service at Marshall Harold Boekelman Evergreen Cemetery 10 a.m.-11 p.m.. American 11 a.m.-6 p.m. .. Hobo Carnival Entertainment opens Art Gallery at the Municipal on Main Street Building After Parade Hobo Poetry 11:30 a.m. ........ Unveiling with Jerry & Frank in the of the 2014 King and Queen Queen’s Garden portraits at the Municipal All Day Britt Lions Putt-Putt Building Golf on Main Street 4-8 p.m. ........... Vagabond All Day Britt Area Chamber Craft Show & Collectibles on Bingo Stand on Main Street Main Street 11 a.m.-8 p.m. .. Cranky All Evening ...... Britt Lions Train Cars by Iowa Trolley Park Putt-Putt Golf on Main Street on Main Street, sponsored by All Evening ...... Britt Area Earl Hill Family Chamber Bingo Stand on 11 a.m.-4 p.m. .. ArmstrongMain Street Larson House Open for Tours 5-11 p.m............ American on 2nd Street SE Carnival Entertainment opens 11 a.m.-6 p.m. .. Hobo Art on Main Street Gallery open at the Municipal 5 p.m. ............... Hobo Building Poetry with Jerry & Frank in 12 p.m. ............. FREE the Queen’s Garden Mulligan Stew at City Park 5-9 p.m. ........... Cranky 12-5 p.m. .......... Sparkles Train Cars by Iowa Trolley Park the Clown featuring Comedy, on Main Street, sponsored by Street Magic and Amazing Earl Hill Family Balloon creations with his 5-6:30 p.m. ...... Alumni clown car on Main Street 12-5 p.m. .......... Paul Banquet Social Hour at West Siebert — Street Musician Hancock Grade School 5:30 p.m. ......... Pudding performing 12:30 p.m......... Hobo Days Eating Contest on Main Street 6 p.m................ Cow Chip Special Memorabilia auction in City Park Gazebo Chucking Contest on Main 1 p.m. ............... King & Street, sponsored by the Iowa
Queen Coronation in City Park Gazebo 1-4 p.m. ............ Ag Museum open at the Hancock County Fairgrounds 2 p.m. ............... The Walker Boys bluegrass band in Veteran’s Park 3 p.m. ............... Toilet Bowl Races on Main Street 4 p.m................ Kids Pedal Power Tractor Pull on Main Street, sponsored by Corwith Red Power 6 p.m................ The Jewels gospel group in Veteran’s Park, sponsored by Jim & Jeannie Purvis 7 p.m. ............... Hobo Entertainment at the Hobo Jungle 8 p.m................ Family concert featuring Nashville based country band The Red Head Express in Veterans Park, sponsored by The Britt Hobo Days Association and Pritchard Family Auto Stores
Where is it on the map? 6. Westview Care Center
1. Hancock County Fairgrounds — Ag museum, Hancock County Speedway
7. Centennial Park 8. Armstrong House
2. Hobo Jungle
9. Queen’s Garden
3. City Park and Britt Municipal Building
10. Hobo Museum 11. St. Patrick’s Catholic Church
4. Evergreen Cemetery, Hobo Memorial 5. West Hancock High School and Elementary Schools
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SUNDAY, AUG. 9 8 a.m.-4 p.m. ... Classic Car, Truck, Motorcycle and Tractor Show on Main Street 8 a.m.-4 p.m. ... Craft Show at City Park 8 a.m.-1 p.m. .... Cheerleaders’ Omelet Breakfast at the Municipal Building 1-4 p.m. ............ The Kraft Brothers Band at City Park 1:30-4 p.m. ...... Historical Society’s Homemade Pie & Ice Cream Social at the Municipal Building HOBO WEEK MUSEUM HOURS: Monday — Thursday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri & Sat: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Be sure to Find us on Facebook: Britt Hobo Days www.britthobodays.com www.hobo.com
FILE PHOTO, Britt News Tribune
Hobos ride in the Hobo Days parade in 2014.
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ALLISON ULLMANN, Britt News Tribune
Cami Haugland, 5, of Crystal Lake concentrates while riding one of the cranky train cars in 2014.
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The 2014 Hobo Queen Cindy Lou adjusts a button before the coronation ceremony last year. RAE YOST, Britt News Tribune
Britt News Tribune graphic
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MEET SOME OF YOUR HOBO DAYS COMMITTEE MEMBERS
She’s crafty Steinberg likes craft, car show combo
RAE YOST
2015 Hobo Guide
Seventeen years ago Phyllis Steinberg of Britt was asked by Linda and Mary Jo Hughes to help with a Sunday craft show during the annual August Hobo Days and National Hobo Convention. Steinberg started carving out a day full of activity then and she hasn’t stopped. “The car show had started a couple days before we did the craft show,” Steinberg said. Although there are arts and crafts on display the Friday and Saturday of the festival, the Sunday craft show has a different atmosphere. Show cars are lined up along Main Avenue while food vendors are along 1st Street Southwest. The city gazebo park is filled with crafters and vendors. To the north, semitrailers line Main Avenue
“They look forward to coming back every year. They enjoy seeing people come to look at the classic cars and listen to music at the gazebo.” —Phyllis Steinberg
with a few antique tractors and motorcycles tucked in pockets along the street. To Steinberg, there’s plenty to do on a Sunday morning and afternoon. “We added other activities to bring people (in town),” Steinberg said. The semi-tractor show was added a few years ago. Several years ago an omelet breakfast at city hall was added. “We’ve got live music in the gazebo,” Steinberg said. But that was an early requirement. Steinberg wouldn’t organize the Sunday craft show if there was not live music. “We got the Hancock County Historical Society
involved by having them serve pie and ice cream,” Steinberg said. She credits the work of others who are willing to make Sunday a big day. The big day wouldn’t happen without crafters and vendors. “We have quite a few who’ve been with me for quite a while,” Steinberg said. “They look forward to coming back every year. They enjoy seeing people come to look at the classic cars and listen to music at the gazebo.” Steinberg has been organizing and participating in craft shows for 50 years. Her deep connections in that community allow
FILE PHOTO, Britt News Tribune
Tom and Mona Bode of Wesley look at a 1968 Mustang GT at the 2014 car show. her to recruit crafters to the Britt show. Yet, there are fewer makers of hand-crafted items than there were 17 years ago, she said. “A lot has been replaced by home-based businesses,” Steinberg said. Still, “It’s a big show. We had a huge show last year,” Steinberg said. She has the same hope for this year that she does every year. “We always hope for a sunshiney day,” Steinberg said.
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2015 HOBO GUIDE• FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2015 • C13
MEET SOME OF YOUR HOBO DAYS COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Arndorfer likes the commitment RAE YOST
2015 Hobo Guide
While Hobo Days and the National Hobo Convention demand a lot of work in a short time when they happen each year in August, it’s the year-round work that Hobo Days Committee member Linda Arndorfer really likes. “The everyday aspect of it,” Arndorfer said. “It’s fun raising the (money) to put (event) on. We just have a good time.” The committee sponsors activities throughout the year to raise money for a carnival, entertainment and other activities during Hobo Days. Comediennes Tina and Lena performed this spring at one of the larger fund-raising events. The event also included a spaghetti dinner. “That was a lot of work. Fixing all that food,” Arndorfer said. But the work paid off. “We knew Tina and Lena were retiring and it would draw a crowd,” Arndorfer said. “People thoroughly enjoyed it. People were already asking ‘what are you going to do next year?’ That was a good feeling.” Arndorfer is also proud of the committee’s annual hoagie sales. “That is a huge fundraiser,” Arndorfer said. The committee and other volunteers make hoagies that are sold in conjunction with an Easter Bunny visit and Britt Chamber of Commerce omelet breakfast each spring. “We have the most fun at it,” Arndorfer said. “The way people all come together, board members, other members
of the committee. I’ve made a lot of new friends this way.” The hoagies are assembled in the American Legion and VFW Veterans building. “You do the same thing all day,” Arndorfer said of adding meat and cheese to a hoagie bun and wrapping that hoagie in plastic. “But that is fun. And the people you work with, they don’t come much nicer than that.” Arndorfer joined the FILE PHOTO, Britt News Tribune Hobo Days Committee From left, Linda Arndorfer and Maxine Boekelman make as temporary treasurer a hoagies on April 3. few years back to help when then treasurer Cindy Noble was ill. Noble died about two years ago and Arndorfer stayed in the role. She quickly learned how much fun the work was but also how the committee gives back through its events. “I never realized the Hobo Days Committee did Supper with Santa,” Arndorfer said. In December, the committee sponsors an TO GET ON THE RIGHT TRACK evening in which kids FINANCIALLY... and families can have hot dogs and ice cream VISIT WITH YOUR FRIENDS AT and meet Santa Claus in the Britt City Hall. The committee gives away a boys and girls bicycle. “It’s so much fun to watch the kids,” Arndorfer said.
Christensen sees growth in Hobo Days just wanted to see Hobo Days survive,” Christensen said. The festival lagged in Back in 2011, Arlene attendance, activities and Christensen was worried overall participation. about the future of Hobo The festival has had Days. She doesn’t worry as a big upswing in about much these days. “In my first year, I was five years. “I’m proud of how we just learning,” Christensen said. “Every year it have brought so many vendors.” That’s the greatgets (bigger).” Christensen’s daughter est thing,” Christensen said of the food vendors Amy Boekelman coaxed and arts and craft vendors her mother to join the that participate each year. Hobo Days Committee One of Christensen’s in 2011. “In the beginning I See GROWTH, C14 RAE YOST
2015 Hobo Guide
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BRITT NEWS TRIBUNE
SCENES FROM THE 2014 NATIONAL HOBO CONVENTION
GROWTH From C13
SUBMITTED FILE PHOTO, Britt News Tribune
Arlene Christensen received $1,000 for Britt Hobo Days Committee. She is shown with David Fox of Farmers Trust and Savings Bank and Jim Nelson of the Ley Foundation. From left, Fox, Christensen and Nelson. main roles is to work with those vendors. “I enjoy all the people that come,” Christensen said. Although she’s proud of the growth in that area, the festival has had other achievements, she said. “We’ve added new activities, new entertainment,” Christensen said. “We have toilet bowl races, a cow chip throwing contest. We’ve got the carnival.” Christensen is firmly
entrenched on the committee as she jokes, “Amy won’t let me quit, unless I die. I don’t have much choice.” She is, however, assured that if she ever did leave the committee, “I won’t be missed,” as volunteers are ready to continue the tradition. “Every year when we get ready for Hobo Days, I think ‘I can’t do it for another year,’” Christensen said. But when it’s over, “I think ‘Oh that was really fun.’”
TOP: Hobos salute during a ceremony at the Hobo Jungle. LEFT: Minneapolis Jewel looks over a photo of a fellow hobo. RIGHT: A hobo performs in the Hobo Jungle.
The Britt Hobo Committee Welcomes You to The 115th NATIONAL HOBO CONVENTION
BRITT NEWS TRIBUNE
2015 HOBO GUIDE• FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2015 • C15
HCHS has partnership with community in health care North Iowa’s greatest resource is its people. Hancock County Health System, HCHS, is dedicated to professional and quality healthcare for the people of Hancock County and the surrounding area. HCHS is a county owned, tax supported health system affiliated with the Mercy Health Network of North Iowa. The facilities within the HCHS included Hancock County Memorial Hospital, a 25-bed critical access hospital, an outpatient rehabilitation clinic in Garner, four primary care clinics in Britt, Garner, Kanawha and Wesley. As an affiliate of Mercy Health Network, HCHS is associated with one of the largest healthcare systems in Iowa. The hospital and clinics offer up-to-date technology and equipment to provide quality patient care now and for generations to come. The HCHS facilities have undergone upgrades in the past several years. The Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt completed a new addition in 2012 and renovations to the first and second floors were completed in the fall of 2013. The 2013 project included expansion of rehabilitation services to provide outpatient physical therapy, diabetic education, cardiac and pulmonary rehab and community fitness center. Seventeen private patient rooms were added to the second floor. Rooms were also dedicated to isolation patients for improved infection control. Two rooms were renovated for hospice rooms that include extra space
for families. Additional changes at the hospital include expanding the radiology area to add services. The most recent construction project was completed in the fall of 2014. The third floor includes a program called Senior Life Solutions. The program is dedicated to addressing the emotional and behavioral health of adults over the age of 65. The HCHS clinics had more than 20,000 visits in 2014. The clinics offer a broad range of services including radiology, laboratory and physical therapy. Visiting speciality doctors offer convenient and expanded health care services for local residents in orthopedics, ear, nose and throat, neurology, urology, podiatry, cardiology and surgical services. Cataract surgery, outpatient surgery and many laproscopic and arthroscopic procedures are available. Other services include sleep studies with the results directly linked the Sleep Disorder Lab at Mercy Medical CenterNorth Iowa, health and safety services to local employers through the business health department, nail care for hands and feet, diabetic education and fitness room open to the public. HCHS clinics in Britt and Garner had major construction projects in the past several years that expanded services areas. HCHS merged with Hancock County Public Health in 2013 to create a more efficient and expanded public health entity in the area. Immunization and education programs are conducted
Catherine Butler, M.D., is a doctor on staff at Hancock County Health System. Dr. Butler provides care in the ER and inpatient unit of the Hospital.
by the merged entity as well as other services. HCHS is also active in supporting overall community health and sponsored a Live Healthy Iowa run and walk and Color Run and Walk this past year. The HCHS medical staff includes: Roger Barillas, ARNP, John Brady, DO, Jamie Branter, PA-C, Catherine Butler, MD, Lissa Holloway, PA-C, Julie Larson, ARNP, Kelly Lillie, ARNP, Mark Lloyd, DO, Lacy Halsrud, ARNP, Marcia Ring, PhD, ARNP, Jennifer Rosenmeyer, DNP, ARNP and Kendra Ulicki, ARNP.
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WELCOME TO BRITT, HOME OF THE 115TH HOBO CONVENTION! Enjoy your stay & make plans to return next year!
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Memories from past National Hobo Conventions Redbird said of Hobo Joe, “He was an agent for his union and he was very proud of the watches he AUG. 15, 2001 collected.” Grandpa Dudley 1960 declared it was “my time Connecticut Slim to be the royalty in the appeared on the platform house,” during this year’s as a hobo and said he’d Hobo Days celebration. been on the road all his Derail was crowned life. However, he wasn’t queen. She told the running for king. He just audience she didn’t like speeches but would rather wanted to thank Britt for its hospitality. “sit down and talk to you Ramblin Bob, 16, of over a cup of coffee.” Omaha, Nebraska, entered Abigail Paca was the race as a novice hobo. crowned Little Miss Britt. Preacher Steve and Half He’s only been on the Track were married during road for two summers and hasn’t experienced the Hobo Days in a traditional rugged life that goes with hobo ceremony. Grandpa Dudley told the couple, “A hoboing. Louis, 16, also rhubarb has two parts. The from Omaha, was here in 1959. He condemned Scoop leaf is poison and I want you to throw it into the fire, Shovel as being too old and having monopolized but the stem upholds the body and it will uphold the the kingship. “We need someone that isn’t so old body of your marriage.” he can’t leave the state,” Hobo Joe was honored Louis said. in the cemetery service Lord James had comat the National Hobo mended Scoop who had Cemetery in Britt. Hobo earlier in the convention Joe died on Sept. 18 at his says “Scotty is no longer in home in Worthington, the hobo fraternity since North Carolina. Redbird Express recalled he lives in a convalescent home in the winter and his friend Hard Rock Kid with a drink of Irish whis- hasn’t left Iowa for almost 14 years. He is no longer a key. “..he only drank it to relax in the evening,” Red- side-door traveler.” Kind David I, alias bird Express said. FROM THE BRITT NEWS TRIBUNE FILES
FILE PHOTO, Britt News Tribune
Early arriving hobos pose for a photo in 2014 in the Hobo Jungle. Around 30 hobos arrived early in Britt for the National Hobo Convention and Hobo Days. Harry Beetison of Ashland, Nebraska, was crowned King of the Hobos. No eligible queens showed up to voice her candidacy. Susan Berge, 14, a protege of King David I, or Browneyed Susan, pouted mildly when not proclaimed queen. AUG. 15, 1974 The annual Mulligan stew feed was again prepared by Monte Harvey.
Again, 450 gallons of stew were gone in less than an hour. By mistake, five large cans of cinnamon were supplied to be included in the seasonings, for this year’s stew, but nobody apparently could tell the difference as there were no complaints. Arthur Parker or Slow Motion Shorty of Rochelle, Illinois, was elected
king of the hobos. Other candidates included Jim Bigtown Gorman, Richard Pennsylvania Kid Wilson, Tom Connecticut Slim Moylan and John Hardrock Kid Misten. Immediate past king, Steam Train Maury Graham was a judge. Mickey Den Feld of Rockwell City or Long Looker Mic was queen.
About 2,000 people attended the election for royalty. AUG. 12, 1976 Steamtrain promised to help the Hobo Foundation build a retirement home in Arizona for elderly men who cannot find a place to settle in their later years. “It would be a home for old dudes who just couldn’t See MEMORIES, C17
In 1981 Fry Pan tells them: Hey, yo u two, there’s no advark ing in t jungle! he
Minneapolis Jewel
Fry Pan Jack
Come to the jungle for the story!
Miss Cindy Lou 2014 Queen
BRITT NEWS TRIBUNE
2015 HOBO GUIDE• FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2015 • C17
How Hobo Days got its start in Britt The fourth annual convention of Tourist Union No. 63, or, more commonly known as the Hobo Convention, happened on Aug. 22, 1900, in Britt. Britt celebrates this anniversary every year with Hobo Days. The National Hobo Convention continues to be in Britt each summer as hobos from across the country gather in the North Iowa town. The convention of Aug. 22, 1900, happened because of much work on the part of Thos. A. Way, T.A. Potter and W. E. Bradford, three energetic men of Britt who proposed to do something different to show the world that Britt was a lively little town capable of doing anything that larger cities could do. Other people who had a big part in Britt’s Hobo Day of 1900 were B.C. Way of Mason City and Frank Morrow of Garner. Way and Potter had read in a Chicago newspaper that Tourist Union No. 63 had elected as
officers Onion Cotton of Danville, Illinois, and Grand Head Pipe Charles F. Noe. The men wrote Noe and invited him to bring the Hobo Convention to Britt in 1900. Noe replied that he would come to Britt and look it over if Way and Potter would pay for his expenses. Way and Potter agreed to pay Noe’s expenses. With this important step completed, the promotion work began. Bailey, a nationally known humorist and ardent conventioneer, assumed the publicity end of the promotion and various other men took positions on other committees. The novelty of the convention appealed to newspaper reporters everywhere and many people talked about it. In the evening, a convention was held by a campfire at the fairgrounds at which an election elevated Admiral Dewey to the presidency and Philip Red to the vice presidency of Tourist Union No. 63.
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MEMORIES From C16 settle down in a regular retirement home, Steam train said. Seire Fun shows brought rides for a three block carnival. Hobo Days organizers said an estimated 20,000 people attended the Friday and Saturday event. The parade had 70 units. Steamtrain Maury Graham was crowned Hobo King. Luann Uhden or Lou the Lush, a senior at South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota, was crowned Hobo Queen. She was with a contingent of students from SDSU in Britt to promote the university’s annual Hobo Day
FRI., AUG. 7th 11:00 AM TILL ???
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was crowned Hobo Queen and King Road Hog USA was crowned Hobo King during this year’s Hobo Days. Thousands from all across the U.S. attended this year’s event. AUG. 19, 1992 Idaho Jack will run for U.S. Congress in his home state of Idaho. The 79-year-old said “he can’t stand to see this country going to the dogs and wants to stand up and be counted.” Idaho Jack was in Britt this year for the annual hobo convention. He made the 3,000 miles round trip in his Ford Fiesta.
editor Rambling Rudy, or Rudy Phillips, writes that he’s been busy since being crowned Hobo King in 1986. “I have already been on several TV stations and a few talks. I am really riding that glory train and loving every bit of it as I glorify Britt and the National Hobo Convention.” This old happy hobo salutes (the chamber) and Britt with all my heartfelt thanks and highest respect and grateful appreciation for the honor of crowning me the King of the Hoboes.” AUG. 12, 1992 Connecticut Shorty
event on Oct. 16. AUG. 6, 1986 A number of motorcyclists on their way to the Black Hills Motorcycle Rally at Sturgis, South Dakota, visited the National Hobo Convention as a stopover on their way. Many camped in the Lion’s Park on the west edge of town. Some others camped near the hobo jungle. This year’s convention did not have a midway as the carnival was not able to come. A substitute, All American Rides, did come with four kiddie rides but no big rides. SEPT. 10, 1986 In a letter to the
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@ S OPEN AFTER PARADE Y A D FARM ROCK 9 PM HOBO DAY MENU ONLY
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SCENES FROM PAST NATIONAL HOBO CONVENTIONS
TOP: A group gathers at a past National Hobo Convention. First row, from left, Sonshine, Nightingale and Connecticut Tootsie. Back row, Blue Moon Bo, MS Charlotte, New York Maggie, Halftrack, Connecticut Shorty, Double B, C’Mon Pat, Liz Lump, Minneapolis Jewel and M.A.D. Mary.
TOP: Dancing is part of the National Hobo Convention. BOTTOM: A group of hobos gather at a prior convention. First row, from left, Frog and Inkman. Back, Iron Horse Brad, Adman, Uncle Freddy and Redbird Express.
BOTTOM: A hobo carves a bindle during the National Hobo Convention.
The 1896 Larson/Armstrong House
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Open Sat. & Sun. 1:30-4 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day ALSO OPEN FOR TOURS BY APPOINTMENT 641-843-4086
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2015 HOBO GUIDE• FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2015 • C19
Hobos establish A brief history of the Tourist Union No. 63 a code of ethics FROM HOBONEWS.COM
An ethical code was created by Tourist Union #63 during its 1889 National Hobo Convention in St. Louis, Missouri. This code was voted upon as a concrete set of laws to govern the nationwide hobo body. 2. When in town, always respect the local law and officials and try to be a gentleman at all times. 3. Don’t take advantage of someone who is in a vulnerable situation, locals or other hobos. 4. Always try to find work, even if temporary, and always seek out jobs nobody wants. By doing so you not only help a business along but ensure employment should you return to that town. 5. When no employment is available, make your own way by using your talents at crafts. 6. Do not allow yourself to become stupid drunk and set a bad example for locals’ treatment of other hobos. 7. When jungling in town, respect handouts, do not wear them out. Another hobo will be
coming along who need them as bad, if not worse than you. 8. Always respect nature, do not leave garbage where you are jungling. 9. If in a community jungle, always pitch in and try to help. 10. Try to stay clean and boil up whenever possible. 11. When traveling, ride your train respectfully, take no personal chances, cause no problems with the operating crew or host railroad, act like an extra crew member. 12. Do not cause problems in a train yard. Another hobo will be coming along who will need passage through that yard. 13. Do not allow other hobos to molest children, expose all molesters to authorities. They are the worst garbage to infest any society. 14. Help all runaway children and try to induce them to return home. 15. Help your fellow hobos whenever and wherever needed. You may need their help someday.
In the mid 1800s several hobos found themselves in a jungle next to the mainline of the B & O RR. They all had something in common. They had been repeatedly kicked out of towns and off train yards because they had no visible means of employment nor funds on hand at many times of the year. And because of strict enforcement of vagrancy laws by all police agencies nationwide, an organization was needed to aid the migrant working hobo. However, if one was the member of a Union then
the unemployed person would not be persecuted for vagrancy while in any city attempting to gain even a few hours of employment. And so these few hobos drew up articles of confederation for a Tourist Union for any hobo nationwide to join and avoid persecution for vagrancy. Finding that the hobos present numbered to 63 this Union was labeled Tourist Union #63. The founding members, both men and women, registered their union in Cincinnati, Ohio, holding a small office at 1143 West Market Street
near the Queensgate neighborhood and the yards of the B & O and Nickel Plate RR’s. In August of each year Tourist Union #63 held a National Hobo Convention to renew friendships, collect annual dues, sign up new members and honor the most deserving of their union to the temporary positions of King, Queen, Crown Prince, Crown Princess and Grand Head Pipe. Thereby attempting to elevate the stature of all hobos in the general public’s eyes. In the year 1899 the heads of the town of Britt, Iowa, approached the
heads of Tourist Union #63 to hold their annual convention in Britt. The president of the Union rode the Milwaukee Road to Britt to inspect the accommodations for the large gathering of members that would converge on Britt in August. And so, beginning in the year 1900, the National Hobo Convention of Tourist Union #63 was moved permanently to Britt, Iowa. The town needed to be able to accommodate a large convening body and this was very evident during the 1949 Convention when a total of 1800 hobos converged upon the town.
Enjoy your visit to the 115th National Hobo Convention
Britt City Council - l - r: Curt Gast, Chad Luecht, Mike Ostercamp, City Clerk - Michelle Anderson, Deputy Clerk - Darcy Eisenman Dwight Leerar, Mayor - Marv Hillenga, Jay Ryerson
Whether it’s taking in the many activities or visiting with hobos in the Hobo Jungle, Hobo Days provides a fun-filled weekend away from the rest of the world.
Don’t let wet corn BUG you, give us a call! Boekelman Grain Equipment, Paul & Amy Boekelman 765 250th St., Britt, IA 50423 • 641-843-3734
Marvin Hillenga, Mayor of Britt Michelle Anderson, City Clerk; Darcy Eisenman, Deputy Clerk
C20 • FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2015 • 2015 HOBO GUIDE
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